EA028949B1 - System and method for diagnosing an engine - Google Patents

Abstract

Methods and systems are provided for an engine (110). A condition of the engine (110) may be diagnosed based on information provided by signals from speed sensors (160) associated with the engine (110) and/or other signals associated with a generator (120) operationally connected to the engine (110). Different types of degradation may be distinguished based on discerning characteristics within the information. Thus, a degraded engine (110) component may be identified in a manner that reduces sendee induced delay.

Description

The present invention will be understood from the following description of embodiments thereof with reference to the attached drawings.

FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a vehicle system (for example, a locomotive system) comprising an engine and a generator (alternator) and shown as a rail vehicle configured to travel on rails via wheels.

FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of an engine and a generator shown in FIG. 1, which are functionally connected with various auxiliary equipment and traction motors.

FIG. 3 illustrates one example of frequency content generation based on engine speed in the time domain.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example of the frequency content of a serviceable and faulty engine.

FIG. 5 illustrates one example of the detection by the diagnostic logic of a fault state controller based on the frequency content of the engine speed signal.

FIG. 6 illustrates one example of determining the difference in time (time interval) during engine rotation.

FIG. 7 illustrates an example of processing time slots determined using the configuration shown in FIG. 6, to diagnose the condition of the engine.

FIG. 8 illustrates one example of engine condition diagnostics by correlating engine speed characteristics and generator characteristics.

FIG. 9 illustrates one example of generating a torque profile based on a measured rotational speed of a piston engine.

Detailed Description of the Invention

Embodiments of the present invention relate to systems and methods for diagnosing engines. Diagnostic kits are also available for performing the mentioned methods. The engine may be part of a vehicle, for example, a locomotive system. Other suitable engine types may include automobiles, off-road vehicles, mining equipment, aircraft and ships. Other embodiments of the present invention may be applied to stationary engines, such as wind turbines or power generators. The engine may be a diesel engine or may burn another fuel or fuel mixture. Such alternative fuels may include gasoline, kerosene, biodiesel, natural gas, and ethanol, as well as combinations of the above. Compressed ignition and / or spark ignition may be used in suitable engines. These vehicles may contain an engine, the components of which may wear out during operation.

In addition, in embodiments of the invention, generator data is used, for example, measured electrical parameters of the generator, or generator data (for example, torque profile) obtained from measured electrical parameters of the generator and / or engine parameters (for example, rotational speed) for diagnostics engine conditions and to distinguish between the states of the respective engine components.

When diagnosing specific types of engine wear, it may be brought to a certain operating state or specific operating mode. For example, engine diagnostics may occur in the state of self-loading as part of the test procedure, in the state of setting dynamic braking or in the state of steady state engine operation. The diagnostic and prediction methods described in this document can be used to analyze trends, compare the differences between cylinders, perform inspection procedures, confirm the need for repairs, and help with repairs. Alternatively, generator and / or engine data can be counted and analyzed when the engine reaches a particular mode of operation or state during its normal operation.

FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a vehicle system 100 (eg, a locomotive system), in this case shown as a rail vehicle 106, configured to move on rails 102 using wheels 108. As shown in FIG. 1, the rail vehicle 106 comprises an engine 110, operatively associated with a generator (alternator) 120. The vehicle 106 includes traction motors 130, functionally connected with the generator 120 and intended to drive the wheels 108. The vehicle 106 also contains various auxiliary systems or equipment 140, operatively associated with a generator 120 or engine 110 (eg, with a rotating motor shaft 111, see FIG. 2), for performing various functions.

The vehicle 106 also includes a controller 150 for controlling various components associated with the vehicle system 100. In one example of the invention, the controller 150 includes a computer control system. In one of the embodiments of the present invention, said computer control system is mainly software and contains 2 028949

There is a processor, for example, processor 152, configured to execute computer instructions. The controller 150 may contain engine control units (more soy1 ιιηίΚ ESI), while the control system can be distributed among all ESI units. The controller 150 also contains computer readable storage media, such as memory 154, containing instructions (for example, computer-executable instructions) that enable on-board monitoring and control of the operation of a rail vehicle. The memory 154 may include volatile or non-volatile memory. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, said controller can be implemented in hardware, for example, on the basis of digital signal processors (Fdia1 81dia1 rtose88OG8, ΌδΡ) or other hardware logic circuits to perform various functions described in this document.

The controller may monitor and control the system of the vehicle 100. The controller may receive a signal from the engine speed sensor 160 or from various generator sensors 170 to determine operating parameters and operating conditions and accordingly adjust various engine drives 162 to control the rail vehicle 106. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention said rotational speed sensor includes a sensor gear connected to the motor shaft 111, and a magnetic resistance sensor for detecting the passage of a tooth mentioned The sensor wheel is close to the magnetic resistance sensor. For example, said controller may receive signals representing various generator parameters from various generator sensors. The generator parameters may include a voltage in the DC connecting line, a current in the DC connection line, a generator excitation voltage, a generator excitation current, a generator output voltage, and a generator output current. In accordance with various other embodiments of the present invention, other generator parameters may also be used. Accordingly, the controller can control the vehicle system by transmitting commands to various components, such as traction motors, alternator, cylinder valves, throttle, and the like. Signals from sensors 170 of the generator can be grouped and transmitted along one or more wiring harnesses to reduce the space allocated for wiring in the vehicle system 100, and to protect the signal wires from mechanical damage and vibration.

The controller may also include on-board electronic diagnostic tools for recording engine performance. Operational characteristics may include, for example, measurements obtained from sensors 160 and 170. In one embodiment of the present invention, said performance characteristics may be stored in a database in memory 154. In one embodiment of the present invention, current performance characteristics may be compared with previous performance data. characteristics to determine trends in operating parameters of the engine and / or auxiliary equipment.

The controller may include on-board electronic diagnostic tools for determining and recording potential wear and failure of components of the vehicle system 100. For example, when a potentially worn component is detected, a specific diagnostic code may be stored in memory 154. In one embodiment of the present invention, a unique diagnostic code may correspond to each type of wear that can be determined by the controller. For example, the first diagnostic code may indicate a failure in the engine cylinder No. 1, the second diagnostic code may indicate a failure in the engine cylinder No. 2, etc.

The controller may be associated with a display 180, such as a diagnostic interface display, providing a user interface for locomotive personnel and maintenance personnel. The controller can control the motor in response to operator input, performed by user control elements 182, by transmitting a command to appropriately regulate various motor drives 162. Examples of user control elements 182 may include a throttle control element, a braking control element, a keyboard, and a power switch. In addition, reports on engine performance, such as diagnostic codes corresponding to worn components, can be transmitted to the operator and / or service personnel via the display 180.

Said vehicle system may comprise a communication system 190 associated with said controller. In one embodiment of the present invention, the communication system 190 may include a radio station and an antenna for receiving and transmitting voice and data messages. For example, data may be exchanged between said vehicle system and a railway control center, another locomotive, a satellite, and / or a track device, such as a railway arrow. For example, the controller may estimate the geographic coordinates of the vehicle system using ΟΡδ-receiver signals. As another example, the controller may transmit engine performance to a control center using messages transmitted from communication system 190. In one embodiment, the implementation of - 3 028949

In accordance with the present invention, a message may be transmitted by the communication system 190 to the control center in the event that engine component wear is detected, and the maintenance of the vehicle system may be assigned.

FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of an engine 110 and a generator 120 shown in FIG. 1, which are operatively associated with various auxiliary equipment 140 (141, 142, 143, 144) and traction motors 130. Various auxiliary mechanical equipment 144 may be functionally connected with the motor rotating shaft 111 and set in motion. Other auxiliary equipment 140 is driven by generator 120 through rectifier 210, which generates a voltage on the DC link for power controllers 230. Examples of such accessories include a blower 141, a compressor 142, and a radiator fan 143. The traction motors 130 are driven by the generator 120 through the rectifier 210, which generates voltage in the DC connecting line for the inverter 220. Such ancillary equipment 140, traction motors 130 and their implementations are well known in the art. In accordance with some of the embodiments of the present invention, generator 120 may in reality be one or more generators, for example, a main generator for driving traction motors 130 and an auxiliary generator for driving parts of auxiliary equipment 140. Other examples of auxiliary equipment include turbo compressors , pumps and engine cooling systems.

The sensor 160 speed measures the rotational speed of the shaft 111 of the engine during operation. The DC sensor 171 is a generator sensor and is capable, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention, to measure the voltage on the DC connection line, the current in the DC connection line, or both. Excitation sensor 172 is a generator sensor and is capable of measuring, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention, the generator excitation current, generator excitation voltage, or both. In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, there are generators 173 and 174 for measuring the output voltage and current of the generator armature, respectively. Depending on the parameters of a particular application, appropriate commercially available sensors may be selected.

The engine may have cylinders ignited in a predetermined sequence, with each cylinder being ignited once during a four-stroke or two-stroke cycle. For example, a four-cylinder four-stroke engine may have an ignition sequence of 1-3-4-2, in which each cylinder ignites once every two engine revolutions. Thus, the ignition frequency of a given cylinder is equal to half the engine speed, and the ignition frequency of any cylinder is equal to twice the engine speed. The engine speed can be called the first-order frequency of the engine. This frequency component of the first order is manifested in the frequency content of the measured parameter of the generator or the signal of the engine speed. The frequency of ignition of a given cylinder of a four-stroke engine can be called the frequency of the half order of the engine, and the frequency of half the order of the engine is equal to half the engine speed. This half-frequency frequency component can also manifest itself in the frequency content of the aforementioned measured parameter of the generator or engine speed signal.

As another example of a four-stroke engine, a twelve-cylinder engine may have an ignition sequence of 1-7-5-11-3-9-6-12-2-8-4-10, with each cylinder igniting once every two engine revolutions. Thus, the ignition frequency of a given cylinder is equal to half the engine speed, and the ignition frequency of any cylinder is equal to the engine speed multiplied by six. As an example of a two-stroke engine, a twelve-cylinder engine can have an ignition sequence of 1-7-5-11-3-9-6-12-2-8-4-10, with each cylinder igniting once with each turn of the engine. Thus, the ignition frequency of a given cylinder is equal to the engine speed, and the ignition frequency of any cylinder is equal to the engine speed multiplied by twelve. Similarly, these frequency components can manifest themselves in the frequency content of the measured parameter of the generator or engine speed signal.

For example, said engine may be a four-stroke engine operating at 1050 rpm. Therefore, the harmonic of the first order of the engine is 17.5 Hz, and the harmonic of the half order of the engine is equal to 8.75 Hz. The voltage in the connecting DC line during the rotation of the shaft 111 while the engine is running may vary with a periodic frequency. For example, the frequency content of the voltage in the connecting DC line may include a frequency component with a frequency of the first order of the motor. In other words, the peak of the amplitude of the frequency content may coincide with the frequency component of the first order. The DC link voltage may also include the frequency content of other first-order frequency harmonics, for example, the second order frequency (twice the engine speed), the third order frequency (engine speed multiplied by three), and so on. Similarly, mention is 4 028949

The voltage in the DC link may include frequency content with frequencies lower than the first-order frequency, for example, a half-order frequency (half the engine speed).

For a healthy engine that functions correctly, the frequency content of the measured parameter of the generator may have a certain "healthy" signature. Deviations from such a valid signature may indicate faults in the engine. For example, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the state of the engine can be diagnosed by analyzing the amplitude and / or phase of the harmonic of half order in said frequency content.

In general, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention, a motor condition can be diagnosed based on a combination of measured motor parameters (for example, rotational speed or pressure) and a generator (for example, voltage in a DC connecting line, etc.). The frequency content of these various parameters can be determined and compared to diagnose a specific engine condition. In addition, based on the profiles of the measured parameters, profiles of other parameters (for example, torque) can be calculated, and, therefore, the frequency content of these profiles can be analyzed to diagnose a specific engine condition.

In one of the embodiments of the present invention for diagnosing the condition of the engine using the frequency content of the engine speed (for example, the rotational speed is measured using the sensor 160 speed). FIG. 3 illustrates an example of frequency content generation based on engine speed in the time domain. To obtain harmonic content, the fast Fourier transform procedure 310 (for example, the PPT (Cancer! Roshteg Tgaik & rm) procedure) or the 320 filtering method can be used. The frequency analysis procedure converts the counted parameter in the time domain into the frequency content in the frequency domain. The various frequency components of said frequency content may include a DC component (zero order), a fundamental frequency component (first order) and harmonic frequency components (second order, half order, third order, etc.). In accordance with one embodiment of the present the inventions The Fourier transform procedure and the bandpass filtering procedure include instructions executed by the processor 152.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example of "healthy" and "faulty" frequency content. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the frequency content 410 of a working engine (i.e., a motor operating correctly) has three frequency components, the absolute and relative amplitudes of which are shown in FIG. 4. The frequency content 420 of a faulty engine (i.e., an engine operating incorrectly due to wear or failure) has three frequency components located in the same positions as in the frequency content 410 of a serviceable engine. However, the amplitude of one frequency component 421 (for example, a half order component) is distorted (for example, the amplitude is increased), while the amplitude of another frequency component 423 (for example, a second order component) is also distorted (for example, the amplitude is reduced), in accordance with one of the options implementation of the present invention. The distortion of the frequency components 421 and 423 in the frequency content 420 indicates a malfunction of the engine. In addition, the specific characteristics of the distorted frequency components (for example, amplitude) relative to other frequency components in the frequency content 420 of a faulty engine may indicate a particular type of wear or engine failure (for example, engine # 3 cylinder failure). Also, to detect malfunction of a particular cylinder, a half-order frequency component phase relative to the reference cylinder (for example, cylinder No. 1) can be used.

Worn components can lead to less efficient engine operation, for example, with less power and / or with increased emissions. In addition, engine operation with worn components can accelerate component wear, which can increase the likelihood of a complete engine failure and line failure. One example of engine component wear is cylinder wear. Accordingly, for a four-stroke engine, distortion of the frequency component may occur at a half-order frequency. For a two-stroke engine, the distortion of the frequency component may occur at a frequency of the first order. Diagnosis in such a case may include both a warning of wear and an indication of the type and / or location of the worn engine component.

FIG. 5 illustrates one embodiment of detection by the diagnostic logic 510 of malfunction controller 150 in terms of the frequency content of the engine speed signal. For example, the frequency component 421 of a half order can be compared by diagnostic logic 510 with a threshold level T. If the amplitude of the frequency component 421 exceeds a threshold level T, then diagnostic logic 510 determines that there is wear in the motor. In addition, if diagnostic logic 510 determines that the ratio of the frequency component 421 of half order to component 422 of the first order exceeds the second threshold level, and the ratio of the frequency component of first order to the frequency component 423 of second order exceeds the third

threshold level, then the diagnostic logic 510 determines that wear refers to a specific engine component (for example, cylinder number 3). In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the diagnostic logic includes executable instructions that are executed by processor 152. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the ratio of the frequency component of half the order to the DC component, or zero order, may indicate a fault in the motor . In addition, the aforementioned threshold level T may depend on the engine operating conditions, for example, on power, speed, environmental conditions, previous repairs, etc.

Types of wear or engine failures that can be diagnosed, recognized, and localized may include, for example, spark plug wear, fuel imbalance, cylinder failure, engine detonation, insufficient fuel flow, insufficient compression, and valve mechanism failure. After wear or failure is diagnosed, certain actions may be taken. Such actions may include, for example, providing a warning signal to the operator (for example, using the display 180), adjusting the operating parameter of the engine (eg, reducing engine power, turning off at least one engine cylinder, completely turning off the engine, balancing engine cylinders), recording the maintenance and transfer of the diagnosed state to the central point (for example, using the communication system 190).

Thus, to determine engine wear, the harmonic content (amplitude and / or phase) of the engine speed can be analyzed (for example, using the controller's 510 diagnostic logic). In one embodiment of the present invention, before reading and processing engine speed information, a piston engine is first brought into a certain operating condition, state or mode of operation. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, engine speed information is not counted and processed until the engine reaches a certain operating condition, state or mode of operation during its normal operation, and the controller will begin to receive and analyze the harmonic content of the speed engine when these specific operating conditions, state or mode of operation is achieved.

In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the differences in the measured rotational speed of a piston engine from cycle to cycle (for example, the rotational speed is measured using a rotational speed sensor) are used to diagnose the condition of the engine. The cycle can correspond to one complete turn, or turn, of the engine. However, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention, the cycle can also be defined in a different way. For example, a cycle can be two complete engine turns (which can correspond to one cylinder ignition cycle), or a cycle can be half the engine turn (which can correspond to the ignition frequency of any engine cylinder).

Since the engine speed varies from cycle to cycle, the characteristics (for example, the harmonic content) differences from cycle to cycle can be analyzed and attributed to engine wear. In accordance with some of the embodiments of the present invention, a piston engine may first be brought into predetermined operating conditions, state or mode of operation, before reading and processing engine speed information. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the rotational speed information is not counted and processed until the engine reaches a certain operating condition, state or mode of operation during its normal operation, and the controller will begin to determine and analyze the differences in engine speed from cycle to cycle when these specific operating conditions, states or modes of operation are achieved.

In one of the embodiments of the present invention for the diagnosis of the condition of the engine using the difference in time of rotation of the piston engine at a given angle. Said predetermined angle may be a full rotation of the engine through 360 ° (from cycle to cycle) or a smaller angle. FIG. 6 illustrates one example of a time difference (time intervals). The gear 610 is connected to the rotating shaft 111 of the engine and rotates with it. A sensor 620 (for example, a magnetic resistance sensor) is located near the toothed wheel 1010 and is able to detect the passage of a tooth of the wheel 610 near it while the wheel 610 rotates. in time of detection of teeth. The angular difference between adjacent teeth on the wheel corresponds to the specified predetermined angle. Therefore, the angular difference between any two teeth on the wheel corresponds to a certain specific angle. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the controller is configured to determine the transit time of two adjacent teeth past the sensor.

For example, when the wheel 610 is rotated, the difference T ₁ | time (time interval) for detecting tooth No. 1 and tooth No. 2, difference T ₂ for detecting tooth No. 3 and tooth No. 4, difference T ₃ for detecting tooth No. 5 and tooth No. 6, etc. when the wheel rotates and is detected by the sensor 620

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passage of individual teeth. FIG. 7 illustrates one example of processing time slots determined using the configuration shown in FIG. 6, to diagnose the condition of the engine.

As shown in FIG. 7, samples of time intervals (T _1? T ₂ , T ₃ , ...) in the time domain are processed (for example, using the PPT controller procedure 310) to determine the frequency content. Using procedure 710 KM контроллера, controller 150 calculates the combined value (for example, the root mean square value (GoPap-Sfc. CM-K) or the average value) of the amplitude of the frequency content around a given harmonic frequency (for example, half-order frequency). Frequency content may be present at and around a specific harmonic frequency (for example, around a half-order frequency), for example, due to changes in load and speed. The state of the engine is diagnosed using the comparison procedure 720 in the controller based on said combined value (for example, by comparing said combined value with a threshold value). Multiple thresholds can be used, each of which corresponds to a different level of engine wear. Depending on the level of severity, various actions can be taken (for example, recording a scheduled maintenance action, reducing engine power, turning off the engine).

In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a piston engine may first be brought into a predetermined operating condition, state or mode of operation, before reading and processing said time intervals. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, time interval information is not counted and processed until the engine reaches a certain operating condition, state or mode of operation during its normal operation, and the controller will begin to determine and analyze time interval information. upon reaching these specific operating conditions, condition or mode of operation.

FIG. 8 illustrates one example of engine condition diagnostics by correlating engine speed characteristics and generator characteristics. The rotational speed of the engine 110 is measured in time (for example, using the sensor 160 speed), while the electrical parameters associated with the generator 120, also measured in time. The controller 150 contains a correlation procedure 810 that correlates the characteristics of the measured rotational speed with the characteristics of the measured electrical parameters. Based on the result of the correlation, the engine condition is diagnosed. As in the case of the engine speed signal in the time domain, the harmonic content of which is determined using, for example, the PPT procedure or the bandpass filtering procedure, the harmonic content of the generator parameter in the time domain can be determined in the same way.

These rotational speed characteristics may include at least one of the following: the harmonic content of the rotational speed, the difference in the measured rotational speed from cycle to cycle, the torque profile derived from the rotational speed, and the difference in the rotation time of a piston engine at a given angle. The electrical parameters to be measured may include voltage in the DC link, current in the DC link, generator excitation voltage, generator excitation current, generator output voltage, and generator output current. The characteristics of the electrical parameters may include, for example, the harmonic content of one or more of these parameters, or the torque profile derived from one or more of these parameters. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, as part of the procedure described, the contribution of torque disturbances caused by a connected load (eg, the sixth harmonic of torque generated by the rectifier) can be removed or ignored.

For example, to diagnose a component of a half-order voltage in a DC link can be correlated with a half-order component of a rotational speed signal. If the amplitude of the half-order component of the voltage in the DC link exceeds the first threshold value, and the phase of the half-order component of the rotational speed signal is between the second threshold value and the third threshold value (relative to some reference value), the engine will diagnose a problem with fuel supply in a certain top hat

As another example, the first-order component of the generator excitation current may be correlated with the second-order component of the rotational speed signal. If the amplitude of the first-order component for the excitation current is less than the first threshold, and the amplitude of the second-order component for the rotational speed signal is greater than the second threshold, then the engine is diagnosed with the problem of insufficient compression. However, if the amplitude of the first-order component for the excitation current is greater than the first threshold mentioned, and the amplitude of the second-order component for the rotational speed signal is greater than the second threshold, the engine is diagnosed with a spark plug failure. Many other types of correlation and appropriate diagnostics are also possible.

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In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, first, the piston engine may be brought into specified operating conditions, state, or mode of operation, before performing the correlation procedure 810. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the correlation procedure is not performed until the engine reaches a certain operating condition, state or mode of operation during its normal operation, and the controller will begin the procedure for correlating rotational speed characteristics and generator characteristics.

In one of the embodiments of the present invention, a diagnostic kit is proposed comprising a controller configured to determine the state of a piston engine based on at least one characteristic measured in time of the rotational speed of the piston engine. The diagnostic kit may also contain one or more sensors for measuring electrical parameters associated with the generator, which is functionally connected to the engine, during operation. The said controller is configured to communicate with said one or more sensors for counting said electrical parameters in time. The said controller is also designed with the possibility of correlating the characteristics of the measured rotational speed and the characteristics of the electrical parameters to diagnose the state of the engine.

FIG. 9 illustrates one example of generating a torque profile based on a measured rotational speed of a piston engine. The controller 150 executes the torque estimation procedure 910, by which the measured engine speed (eg, obtained from the rotational speed sensor 160) is counted in time, acceleration components are obtained (when considering the derivative of the rotational speed over time) based on the measured rotational speed at certain characteristic frequencies and combine said acceleration components to determine the torque profile. Then perform engine diagnostics by analyzing the characteristics of the torque profile. For example, the harmonic components of the torque profile can be generated and compared with threshold values. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, first, the piston engine may be brought into predetermined operating conditions, state, or mode of operation, before performing the torque estimation procedure 910. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the torque evaluation procedure is not performed until the engine reaches a certain operating condition, state or mode of operation during its normal operation, and the controller will begin performing the torque evaluation procedure and subsequent analysis of the estimated profile. torque

In accordance with various embodiments of the present invention, the controller 150 is configured to transmit a report on a worn engine condition, for example, using the communication system 190. In addition, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention, said controller includes instructions configured to adjust an engine operating parameter based on a diagnosed state of the engine.

The following are other examples of the use of the systems and methods described herein. These examples illustrate various approaches for diagnosing and distinguishing types of engine wear based on the frequency content of generator data (for example, regarding an unprocessed generator parameter, such as voltage in a DC connection line, or other derived generator parameters, such as electromagnetic torque) associated with generator, or engine speed during operation.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a worn cylinder of a four-stroke engine can be detected based on a frequency content signature, for example, based on exceeding the amplitude of the frequency component of half the order of the half-order threshold. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the amplitudes of the frequency content can be integrated over a frequency range, and a worn cylinder of a four-stroke engine can be detected on the basis that the result of integration exceeds the threshold value of integration.

To detect one worn cylinder, while the remaining engine cylinders are more serviceable (or less worn), a clearer frequency content signature can be used than in cases where multiple engine cylinders are worn. For example, the signature of the frequency content of one worn cylinder can be detected by comparing the amplitude of the frequency component of half the order with the threshold value of the amplitude of half the order. However, many worn cylinders may have a signature of the frequency component that is different from the signature for one worn cylinder. In addition, the position in the ignition sequence of a set of worn cylinders can affect the frequency content signature. For example, two worn cylinders operating with a 180 ° phase difference may have a different frequency component signature compared to two worn cylinders in a sequential ignition order, and therefore, the methods described in this document can detect one or more worn cylinders based on various changes in frequency signature

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In addition, it may be preferable to apply the generation of the frequency content signature of a serviceable engine by recording the frequency content at different frequencies and in different operating conditions. In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the frequency content of the engine can be compared with the signature of the frequency content of a serviceable engine. Anomalies that do not match the frequency content signature of a serviceable engine, or another worn engine component can be identified and, for example, reported by the controller. Other examples of worn engine components include a worn engine crankcase pumping system, a worn turbocharger and a worn crankcase.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the time domain generator data may be filtered using a low-pass filter with a cut-off frequency slightly higher than the first order frequency. For example, the cutoff frequency may be 10–20 percent larger than the first order frequency. Accordingly, in one embodiment of the present invention, the cut-off frequency may be set using the engine speed. Generator data can be timed at a frequency greater than or equal to the Nyquist frequency. In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the signal in the time domain can be counted with a frequency exceeding twice the frequency of the first order motor. In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the signal in the time domain can be counted at a frequency greater than twice the maximum frequency of the engine. Therefore, when filtering low frequencies and reading at a frequency greater than or equal to the minimum Nyquist frequency, the frequency content of the generator data will not be affected by low-frequency sampling noise. The same applies for engine speed data.

In accordance with the present description, the counted generator data (for example, the voltage in the DC connecting line, torque, etc.) and / or the counted engine speed data can be converted to form the frequency content in the frequency domain. In one embodiment of the present invention, a fast Fourier transform may be used to form the frequency content in the frequency domain. In one embodiment of the present invention, a correlation algorithm may be used to compare the frequency content of said data with the engine state signature. For example, a serviceable engine signature may include a frequency content with a first order frequency component with an amplitude less than a first order threshold value and a half order frequency component with an amplitude less than a half order threshold value. Said first order threshold value may correspond to engine rotational speed, engine load, crankcase temperature and previous engine data.

For example, the aforementioned previous data of the engine and the generator can be stored in a database containing samples of the frequency content from the previous engine operation. Consequently, it is possible to detect trends in the frequency content, while these trends can be used to determine the health of the engine. For example, an increase in the amplitude of the half-frequency frequency component for a given rotational speed and engine load may indicate cylinder wear. As another example, an increase in the average pressure of the crankcase with no increase in the amplitude of the half-frequency frequency component for a given rotational speed and engine load may indicate wear of the turbocharger or the crankcase pumping system. Potential failure may include a worn cylinder, a worn turbocharger, or a worn crankcase pumping system.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the frequency content of generator data and / or engine speed data may be stored in a database containing previous engine and generator data. For example, the database may be stored in the memory 154 of the controller 150. As another example, the database may be stored at a location remote from the rail vehicle 106. For example, previous data may be encapsulated in a message and transmitted via the communication system 190. Thus, the control center can monitor the health of the engine in real time. For example, the control center may perform engine status diagnostics steps using generator data or speed data transmitted via communication system 190. For example, the control center may receive data from the rail vehicle 106, perform frequency conversion of this data, apply a correlation algorithm to the converted data, and diagnose potential engine wear. In addition, the control center can schedule maintenance and use serviceable locomotives and maintenance personnel to optimize capital investment. Previous generator data can also be used to assess engine health before or after engine maintenance, engine modification, and engine component replacement.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a potential failure report may be transmitted to the operating personnel of the locomotive via the display 180. After the operator is notified, he can adjust the operation of the rail vehicle 106 so that

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minimize potential or further engine wear. In one embodiment of the present invention, a message indicating a potential failure may be transmitted using communication system 190 to a control center. In addition, the severity of a potential failure can also be reported. For example, fault diagnostics based on the frequency content of generator data and / or engine speed data may allow fault detection earlier than using only averaged engine information. Consequently, after detecting a potential failure at an early stage of wear, the engine can continue to work. In contrast, if a potential failure is diagnosed as severe, it may be necessary to stop the engine or schedule a quick maintenance. In one embodiment of the present invention, the severity of a potential failure can be determined in accordance with the difference between the threshold value and the amplitude of one or more frequency components of the frequency content of the generator data and / or the engine speed data.

By analyzing the frequency content of the generator data, it becomes possible to monitor and diagnose the engine during operation. In addition, engine operation with a worn component can be adjusted so as to potentially reduce additional engine component wear and the likelihood of additional engine failures and failure during operation. For example, a half order frequency component can be compared with a half order threshold. In one of the embodiments of the present invention, if the amplitude of the frequency component of the half order is greater than the threshold value of the half order, then a worn cylinder may be a potential failure. However, if the amplitude of the frequency component of the half order is not greater than the threshold value of the half order, then the potential failure may be wear of the turbocharger or wear of the crankcase extraction system.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a potential failure report may be transmitted to the locomotive personnel by the display 180, and the operator may adjust the operation of the rail vehicle 106 so as to reduce further wear. In one embodiment of the present invention, a diagnosis message of a potential failure can be transmitted via the communication system 190 to the control center.

In one embodiment of the present invention, engine performance may be adjusted to detect a worn cylinder. For example, a worn cylinder may be identified based on selectively disabling fuel injection in one or more engine cylinders. In one embodiment of the present invention, fuel injection may be shut off sequentially for each cylinder of multiple cylinders, while monitoring one or more generator data and / or engine speed data and associated frequency content. For example, fuel injection in one cylinder may be turned off, while the remaining cylinders operate normally. By disconnecting each cylinder in succession, a worn cylinder can be identified. As another example, fuel injection into a cylinder group may be shut off, while other cylinders operate normally. With the help of cyclic sequential enumeration of different groups by the method of elimination can be determined worn cylinder.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the frequency component of a half order of generator data and / or engine speed data can be monitored when each cylinder of a four-stroke engine is disconnected. A disabled cylinder may be worn out if, when this cylinder is turned off, the half-order frequency component drops below the half-order threshold for the state when the cylinder is off. A disabled cylinder may be healthy if, if this cylinder is turned off, the half-order frequency component remains above the half-order threshold for the state when the cylinder is off. In other words, a worn cylinder can be the cylinder that contributes more to the half-order frequency component in the frequency content than other cylinders. In one of the embodiments of the present invention, diagnostics with selective shut-off of cylinders can be performed when the engine is in standby mode or under light load.

In one of the embodiments of the present invention, diagnostics with selective shut-off of cylinders can also be based on the frequency content of engine operating parameters, such as engine speed. For example, when a worn cylinder is in operation, the engine speed may have a half-frequency frequency component in the frequency content. Accordingly, by observing the frequency content of various engine operating parameters, by selectively turning off each cylinder, a worn cylinder can be identified.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a worn cylinder may be determined based on selective adjustment of fuel injection in one or more engine cylinders. For example, the supply of fuel to each cylinder can be selectively increased or decreased by monitoring the frequency component of the half-order generator data and / or engine speed data. In addition, the signature, for example, frequency content, of each cylinder can be compared with previous data of this engine or with data from a serviceable engine. For example, for

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Formation of the base signature can be performed diagnostic test on the proper engine. The base signature can then be compared with the frequency content in engine diagnostics. In one embodiment of the present invention, a worn cylinder may be determined by changing the fuel injection time. For example, timing adjustments can be used to diagnose a worn cylinder. For example, fuel injection time may be delayed to potentially increase the frequency content of the half-order frequency component.

It may be preferable to turn off the engine than a failure due to a worn cylinder, which can lead to additional engine damage. In one embodiment of the present invention, a threshold value may be determined, which indicates that continued engine operation is undesirable due to the high severity of the potential failure. For example, a potential failure can be defined as severe if the amplitude of the half-order component exceeds the threshold value. If the severity of a potential failure exceeds a threshold, the engine may be turned off.

A request for scheduling maintenance can be transmitted, for example, via a message transmitted via communication system 190. In addition, by transmitting information on the status of a potential failure and the severity of this potential failure, the idle time of a rail vehicle 106 can be reduced. For example, maintenance of a rail vehicle 106 can be postponed with a low degree of severity of a potential failure. The idle time can be reduced even more by reducing engine power, for example, by adjusting the engine operating parameter based on the diagnosed state. A determination may be made whether engine power reduction is permitted. For example, as a result of a decrease in engine power, the amplitude of one or more components of the frequency content of the generator data and / or the engine speed data may decrease.

The adjustment of the operating parameter of the engine can be made, for example, to reduce the additional wear of the worn component. In one embodiment of the present invention, the rotational speed or engine power may be controlled. In one embodiment of the present invention, fuel injection into a potentially worn cylinder may be reduced or disabled while continuing to operate other cylinders. Accordingly, the engine can continue to operate, with further deterioration of the worn cylinder can be reduced. In this way, the engine can be adjusted to potentially reduce additional engine component wear and the likelihood of a complete engine failure or line failure.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a diagnostic kit may be used to determine the frequency content of the generator data and / or engine speed data and diagnose the engine condition based on the frequency content of this data. For example, a diagnostic kit may include a controller configured to communicate with one or more generator sensors and / or engine speed sensors and to read the corresponding generator data. The controller may also be configured to convert signals from one or more sensors into frequency content providing frequency information of the engine. The controller can also be configured to diagnose the state of the engine based on the frequency content of the read data received from the sensor (s). The diagnostic kit may also contain one or more sensors for measuring generator parameters (for example, generator output voltage) and / or engine parameters (for example, engine speed).

In the present description and claims, a number of terms are used that have the meanings set forth below. Use of the singular includes the plural unless expressly stated otherwise. In the specification and claims, expressions indicating approximate values may be used to indicate that the quantitative representation is subject to change without change as a result of this basic function associated with it. Accordingly, the value followed by such an expression as “about” is not limited to the exact indicated value. In some cases, expressions indicating approximate values may correspond to the accuracy of the tool for measuring this value. Similarly, the expression "without" can be used in combination with a term and may imply a small or negligible amount, while indicating the absence of a term with which this expression is used. Moreover, unless expressly stated otherwise, the terms "first", "second", etc. they do not specify the order or importance of elements, but are used to distinguish one element from another.

As used herein, the words "may" and "may be" indicate the possibility of a particular property, characteristic or function appearing under certain circumstances and possessing a particular property, characteristic or function and / or refining another verb, expressing one or more of the following: skill or ability associated with the specified verb. Accordingly, the use of the words "may" and "may be" indicates that it has been modified.

The term appears to be appropriate, accepting, or appropriate for a specified ability, function, or application, given that in some circumstances a modified term may sometimes not be appropriate, admissible, or appropriate. For example, in some circumstances you can expect some event or opportunity, while in other circumstances such an event or such a possibility cannot arise - this difference is fixed by the words "may" and "may be." The terms "generator" and "alternator" are used interchangeably herein (however, it is recognized that one or the other terms may be more appropriate depending on the application). The terms “frequency content” and “harmonic content” are used interchangeably in this document and may refer to the fundamental frequency components (and / or phases) and the corresponding harmonic frequency components (and / or phases) above and below the fundamental components. The term "instructions" used in relation to a controller or processor may refer to computer-executable instructions. In this document, the terms “rotational speed”, “rotational speed data” and “rotational speed signal” can refer to any of the following: engine speed, harmonic content of measured engine speed, differences in measured engine speed from cycle to cycle, time differences required to rotate the engine at a given angle, as well as time intervals, where each time interval corresponds to the time required to rotate the engine at a given angle.

The described embodiments of the present invention are examples of products, systems, and methods comprising elements that correspond to the elements of the invention set forth in the claims. This description provides professionals the ability to create and apply embodiments of the invention with alternative elements that correspond to the elements of the invention set forth in the claims. Thus, the scope of the present invention includes products, systems and methods that do not differ from the literal statement of the claims, as well as other products, systems and methods that have minor differences from the literal statement of the claims. Although specific features and embodiments of the present invention have been described and illustrated herein, many modifications and modifications of the invention will be understood by those skilled in the art. The appended claims cover all such modifications and changes.

Claims (23)

CLAIM 1. A method for diagnosing the state of a piston engine, including obtaining a time variation of the rotational speed of the engine, obtaining the frequency content of said dependence of the engine rotation speed, analyzing one or more frequency components of the obtained frequency content and based on analysis of the definition of engine wear. 2. The method according to claim 1, in which the analysis of one or more frequency components includes an analysis of the amplitude and / or phase of the frequency component of half the order. 3. The method according to claim 1, in which the piston engine is first brought into certain operating conditions, condition or mode of operation. 4. The method according to claim 1, in which the dependence of the change over time of the engine speed is obtained when the piston engine reaches certain operating conditions, state or mode of operation. 5. A method for diagnosing a piston engine, including determining the sequence of differences of the measured rotational speeds of a piston engine from cycle to cycle, obtaining the frequency content of said sequence of differences of measured rotational speeds, analysis of one or more frequency components of the obtained frequency content based on an analysis of engine wear. 6. The method according to claim 5, in which the piston engine is first brought into certain operating conditions, condition or mode of operation. 7. The method according to claim 5, in which the sequence of differences of the measured rotational speeds from cycle to cycle determines when the piston engine reaches certain operating conditions, state or mode of operation. 8. A method for diagnosing a piston engine, functionally connected with a generator, comprising obtaining the dependence of the rotational speed of the engine over time, or determining the sequence of differences in the measured rotational speeds of the engine from cycle to cycle, or determining a set of time intervals, each time interval corresponding to the time it takes the engine to turn at a given angle; - 12 028949 obtaining the time dependence of the electrical parameter associated with the generator; obtaining the frequency content of said motor rotation speed dependence, or obtaining the frequency content of said sequence of differences of measured rotational speeds, or obtaining the frequency content of said plurality of time intervals; obtaining the frequency content of the above-mentioned dependence of the electrical parameter associated with the generator; analysis of the frequency components of the frequency content obtained and, based on the analysis, determination of engine wear. 9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the electrical parameter is one of the following: generator output current, generator output voltage, generator excitation current, generator excitation voltage, current in the DC connecting line, and voltage in the DC connecting line. 10. The method according to claim 8, in which the piston engine is first brought into certain operating conditions, condition or mode of operation. 11. The method of claim 8, wherein the dependence of the change in time of the engine speed and the dependence of the change in time of the electrical parameter associated with the generator is obtained when the piston engine reaches certain operating conditions, state or mode of operation. 12. A method for diagnosing the state of a piston engine, including obtaining the dependence of the change in time of the engine speed; determining the dependence of the change in time of the engine torque based on the dependence of the change in time of the engine speed; obtaining the frequency content of the above-mentioned dependence of the change in time of the engine torque; analysis of one or more frequency components of the frequency content obtained and, based on the analysis, determination of engine wear. 13. The method according to item 12, in which the piston engine is first brought into certain operating conditions, condition or mode of operation. 14. The method according to item 12, in which the dependence of the change over time of the engine speed is obtained when the piston engine reaches certain operating conditions, state or mode of operation. 15. Vehicle system containing engine; a sensor to determine the rotational speed of the engine and a controller containing instructions configured to obtain the dependence of the variation in time of the rotational speed of the engine, obtain the frequency content of the above-mentioned dependence of the rotational speed of the engine, analyze one or more frequency components of the obtained frequency content and based on the analysis of determining engine wear. 16. The system of clause 15, in which the said controller is configured to transmit a report on the worn state of the engine. 17. The system of Claim 15, wherein said controller also includes instructions configured to adjust an engine operating parameter based on said diagnosed state. 18. Vehicle system containing engine; generator functionally connected to the engine; a sensor to determine the speed of rotation of the engine; a sensor for measuring the electrical parameter associated with the generator during operation, and a controller containing instructions configured to obtaining the dependence of the engine rotational speed variation over time, or determining the sequence of differences in the measured engine rotational speeds from cycle to cycle, or determining a set of time intervals, each time interval corresponding to the time it takes the engine to rotate at a given angle; obtain the dependence of the time variation of the electrical parameter associated with the generator; obtaining the frequency content of the above-mentioned dependence of the rotational speed of the engine, or obtaining the frequency content of said sequence of differences of measured rotational speeds, or obtaining the frequency content of said plurality of time intervals; obtain the frequency content of the above-mentioned dependence of the electrical parameter associated with the generator; analysis of the frequency components of the received frequency content and based on the analysis of the definition of engine wear. - 13 028949 19. The system according to claim 18, wherein said controller is configured to transmit a report on the worn state of the engine. 20. The system of claim 18, wherein said controller also includes instructions configured to adjust an engine operating parameter based on said diagnosed state. 21. A method for diagnosing a piston engine condition, comprising measurement by the processor of multiple time intervals, with each time interval corresponding to the time it takes the engine to turn at a given angle; the processor determining the frequency content of said plurality of time slots; calculation by the processor of the combined value of the amplitudes of the frequency content around a given harmonic frequency and engine condition diagnostics based on said combined value. 22. The method according to claim 21, wherein the predetermined harmonic frequency is a half order frequency. 23. The method according to claim 21, wherein the combined value is the rms value (ΚΜδ).